Bill > HB1442

This bill proposes to revise the state's approach to epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response. It would: 1) Amend the definitions of "epidemic" and "pandemic" to focus on severity of illness, mortality, and morbidity rather than just the emergence of a new virus. 2) Prohibit state and local governments from creating new legal duties for businesses and premises owners regarding exposure to airborne germs and viruses, and prevent such orders and recommendations from being used to establish tort liability. 3) Require the state health secretary to submit preparedness and response plans for review by other government agencies to assess potential economic and societal impacts, and establish a balancing test for evaluating proposed public health measures. 4) Mandate that the health secretary set requirements for local epidemic and pandemic preparedness plans, including strategies to minimize business/school/church closures, use validated testing, and provide information on nutrient/drug therapies. 5) Provide funding to local health jurisdictions to develop their plans and carry out preparedness activities. 6) Prohibit enforcement of any public health measures that infringe on state or federal constitutional rights. The overall intent is to promote a more balanced, evidence-based, and less disruptive approach to epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response in Washington state.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1442&Year=2021&Initiative=false